Since capturing the WWE NXT Championship in September 2025, Ricky Saints has experienced a profound shift in his mindset and approach to wrestling, underscoring the intense pressure that comes with holding NXT’s premier title. Saints, a former AEW star turned WWE sensation, recently opened up about what feels different now that he carries the brand’s most prestigious championship and how he plans to take NXT to new heights.
From AEW Star to WWE NXT Champion: A Career Transformed
Ricky Saints, born Richard Starks, made waves in professional wrestling long before his WWE tenure. After honing his craft on the independent scene and making a name in the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA) and All Elite Wrestling (AEW), where he won the Owen Hart Cup and AEW World Tag Team Championship, Saints signed with WWE early in 2025. Quickly rising through the ranks of NXT, he claimed the NXT North American Championship before dethroning Oba Femi to become the NXT Champion at NXT No Mercy 2025[1][5].
His rapid ascent from debuting in WWE to holding its secondary title and then the top NXT prize within roughly eight months speaks volumes about his talent and determination. “Within eight months, I was already North American champion, and now I’m the NXT Champion. That’s wild, but I’m not surprised,” Saints told Busted Open Wrestling[4].
The Weight of the NXT Championship: A New Paradigm
Winning the NXT Championship comes with elevated expectations and responsibilities. Saints has openly acknowledged an added layer of pressure since winning the title. Unlike his previous runs with regional or mid-card belts, the NXT Championship symbolizes leadership of the brand and the future of WWE’s emerging talent. Saints explained that holding this title means being the face of NXT a role that demands not just top-tier in-ring performances but also carrying the brand’s vision forward with confidence and authority.
“Being the champion of NXT isn’t just about winning matches. It’s about representing everything the brand stands for. That’s a whole different kind of pressure,” Saints said in a recent interview[4]. WWE insiders confirm that backstage, Saints is viewed as a locker room leader whose work ethic sets an example for up-and-coming talents. One source close to the creative team shared, “Ricky understands the gravity that comes with the NXT title. He’s embraced being the guy who puts others over but also delivers consistent, high-caliber matches. It’s clear he’s locked in for the long haul”[1].
Dynamic Rivalries and Elevating NXT’s Profile
Part of the pressure of holding the NXT Championship is the constant challenge from top contenders hungry for gold. Since winning the title, Saints has entered a heated rivalry with Trick Williams, marked by intense promos, aggressive brawls, and contract signing confrontations. A recent televised segment featured Saints smashing Trick Williams through a table during their Halloween Havoc contract signing, underscoring the physical and mental toll that the rivalry entails[2].
Saints embraces these challenges as part of what elevates his championship reign and NXT as a whole. “Every time I step into that ring with a top contender, I’m not just defending the belt, I’m defending a legacy. NXT is my house now,” Saints stated defiantly[2].
Balancing Pressure with Vision for the Future
Looking forward, Saints’ ambition extends beyond just holding the NXT Championship. He envisions using the title as a springboard to not only headline major NXT events but also to forge a path to WWE’s main roster or possibly even larger pay-per-views in the near future. When asked about his next steps after settling business with Trick Williams, Saints was direct: “The title means nothing if you don’t build a legacy. I want to headline big shows, maybe even move to the main roster, but for now, it’s about elevating NXT to a status where we’re all seen as main-eventers”[4].
This mindset reflects a mature understanding of his role in WWE’s ever-evolving landscape. WWE’s NXT Championship is widely regarded as a launching pad for future main-event stars, following in the footsteps of alumni like Seth Rollins and Big E who parlayed the title into major WWE success[6]. Saints’ reign is positioned to further that tradition.
Backstage Buzz: Saints’ Rising Respect Among Peers
Sources close to WWE talent and creative staff note that Ricky Saints’ transition from AEW to WWE and his quick rise within NXT has earned him a mix of respect and high expectations. One backstage observer commented, “Ricky came in with a chip on his shoulder and left no doubts. He’s not just the champ in storyline, but in work ethic and professionalism. The pressure for him is real, but so is his capability to handle it”[1].
This backstage confidence suggests Saints could redefine what it means to be NXT Champion in 2025 and beyond, acting not just as a titleholder but as a brand ambassador and mentor for fresh talent.
The Man, The Brand, The Championship
Ricky Saints has transformed from a polished star on the independent scene and AEW stalwart to the authoritative face of WWE NXT’s new era. His candid reflections on the increased pressure that comes with the NXT Championship reveal both the mental fortitude and competitive hunger necessary to thrive in sports-entertainment’s demanding environment.
With fierce rivalries heating up and a vision that extends beyond NXT’s squared circle, Saints is setting the stage for a memorable championship reign. WWE fans looking for excitement in NXT should keep a close eye on Saints as he not only defends his belt but defines what it truly means to lead the future of WWE.
